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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a Buddhist to benefit from meditation?
No. These classes are presented so that anyone can learn basic
meditation and experience the benefits. Buddhism is a non-evangelical
religion.
Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless
of whether they subscribe to another faith, or to none.
Do I need to have experience in meditation or Buddhism to attend
the classes?
No. All you need is the wish to improve yourself and the quality
of your life. There will probably be other beginners there too.
What do I need to bring to class?
You don't need to bring anything with you unless you would like to
take some notes, in which case please bring a pen and notepad.
What is the cost of the classes?
For evening classes we ask for £6 per class or £29
per month for unlimited classes, which help us support the center
and the branches. You can get a class card for £20 which is good
for any 4 classes and it doesn't expire.
There are some classes which we offer with no request for a contribution.
(However donations are always welcome).
As a charity, fees for classes are a main source
of income.
What if I don't have money and I want to go to a class?
Everyone can participate in the classes regardless of ability to
pay.
Will I be expected to sit on the floor?
No. Seating on chairs is provided.
How should I dress for class?
Dress comfortably.
What can I expect at a weekly class?
They begin with a relaxation meditation. Some classes
have a short chanted meditation. Then there will be a talk about
an aspect of meditation and Buddhism, with emphasis on how these
can be applied to daily life. There is a second meditation
on the subject of the talk and questions-and-answers. Relevant
Buddhist books will be on sale for further reading. The classes
conclude with light refreshments and an opportunity to get to know
people informally.
Will I be asked to say anything, or speak in front of
a group of people?
No. But you're welcome to ask questions if you want to.
Is there any physical exercise involved, such as yoga?
No. The courses focus on meditation alone.
If I want to attend a weekly class, do I need to wait
for the next course of classes to begin?
No. Each class is self-contained so you can drop in whenever you like, even
on the last class of a series.
Is advance booking required?
No. For weekly classes it is not necessary to book in advance.
What relevance does Buddhism have to the UK now and to
my life?
Although Buddhism first appeared in India over two and a half thousand
years ago, it has a timeless and universal relevance. In a nutshell,
Buddha explained that all our problems arise from confused and
negative states of mind. He taught methods for ridding the mind
of these destructive states and thereby realizing true happiness
and fulfillment. These methods work for any mind, in any country,
in any age.
Who do Buddhists worship, and why?
Buddhists regard all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas as perfect guides
and role models, and as such naturally develop faith in them
and rely upon them as Spiritual Guides.
As a meditator approaches, and eventually attains, enlightenment
he or she develops extraordinary mental powers. These include the
ability to bless receptive minds with powerful transforming energy
that greatly accelerates the process of mental development. For
this reason, Buddhists try through meditation, prayer, and various
ritual practices to communicate with enlightened beings and receive
their transforming blessings.
Is the NKT part of Tibetan Buddhism?
No. The New Kadampa Tradition is global Buddhism. Just as the Tibetans
faithfully adopted the practices taught to them by the great
Indian masters and adapted it to their own culture, so Geshe
Kelsang encourages people from all ethnic backgrounds to adopt
the wisdom and compassion of Buddha and put it into practice
in a way that suits their particular culture.